Propitiated: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Latin word 'propitiatus,' which means to appease or calm someone’s anger.
• The root 'propitius' translates to 'favorable', reflecting the idea of gaining favor.
• Historically, it has been used in religious contexts, referring to rituals meant to gain the favor of gods.

Mythology

• In ancient cultures, rituals to propitiate deities were common to avert disasters or maintain good fortune.
• The Greeks and Romans often performed sacrifices to propitiate their gods during times of crisis.
• The story of the 'Golden Calf' demonstrates how people sought to propitiate their deity after turning away from worship.

Literature

• Authors throughout history used the concept of propitiation to explore themes of redemption and forgiveness.
• In Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', the protagonist attempts to propitiate his father's ghost by seeking vengeance on his uncle.
• In many fairy tales, characters seek to propitiate by completing quests or helping others to regain favor.

Psychology

• The act of propitiation often relates to interpersonal relationships, where one seeks to repair a rift caused by conflict.
• In psychological terms, it may involve people trying to mitigate guilt or anxiety after a wrongdoing.
• The concept is tied to the idea of reparative behaviors, where individuals engage in positive actions to restore harmony.

Pop Culture

• Films often depict protagonists who must propitiate someone after tragedy strikes, highlighting themes of redemption.
• Songs about apologies and making amends reflect the need for propitiation, showing its emotional weight in relationships.
• In modern storytelling, characters may undertake grand gestures to propitiate friends or loved ones they’ve wronged.

This word's position of #31,343 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 31340 effulgence
• 31341 brutalized
• 31342 agave
• 31343 propitiated
• 31344 solitaire
• 31345 cajoling
• 31346 coot
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